Antony Waste Handling Cell Ltd, a Mumbai-based municipal solid waste manager, has teamed up with Japan's JFE Engineering Corporation to build two waste-to-energy plants in Andhra Pradesh. This deal marks the first Japanese foreign direct investment in India's WtE sector. JFE will invest ¥750 million (Rs 43 crore) for a 25% stake in the project vehicles, while Antony Waste holds 75%.

Project Structure and Locations

The facilities target Kadapa and Kurnool districts. JFE Engineering India takes the role of engineering, procurement, and construction contractor. Each plant processes 750 tonnes of municipal solid waste daily, with capacity up to 1,000 tonnes, generating 15 MW of power for a combined 30 MW output.

Financial and Timeline Details

The projects run under 20-year concessions with a power purchase tariff of ₹8.10 per unit. Total revenue reaches about ₹3,200 crore, financed 75% by debt and 25% equity. Construction finishes in 24 months, aiming for commissioning in the first quarter of FY2028–29.

Expertise and Broader Impact

JFE Engineering brings experience from over 250 global WtE facilities, including advanced technologies, digital monitoring, and high environmental standards. Antony Waste's chairman Jose Jacob called the investment a validation of the company's execution and vision, blending local expertise with Japanese technology. Akira Usui of JFE highlighted confidence in India's WtE potential and long-term commitment to sustainable infrastructure.

India's Waste Management Challenge

India produces nearly 150,000 tonnes of municipal solid waste each day but taps less than 5% of its 5,600 MW WtE potential. This partnership aligns with India-Japan Joint Vision 2025 for investments in priority sectors. It supports policy pushes for public-private models to expand waste processing and energy recovery.